Interview: Big Overlooked 3-Star 2019 DB Jamel Hamm Mulling Recruiting Options
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Talk about a recruit that checks all the boxes – fastidious, intelligent, athletic, big, determined, play-maker, high-character – Class of 2019 three-star recruit Jamel Hamm appears to have it all except of just one thing… the national recruiting attention he seemingly deserves.
After a senior season with Glenville (Cleveland) stunted by an ankle injury, Hamm was taken off a lot of recruiting boards with college scouts ostensibly forgetting about the 6-4, 200-pound, defender once he got to Fork Union Military Academy in Georgia. With the Blue Devils, Hamm posted an estimated stat line of 20 stops with eight passes broken up and two picks as his squad went undefeated in 2018.
Four programs have offered Hamm thus far, Miami-Ohio, Kent State, Massachusetts, and Alabama State, with some Power 5 schools like Virginia, UCLA, Virginia Tech and Ohio State showing interest among others. Beyond the physical, Hamm has a 3.2 GPA and scored a 27 on the ACT. Getting the inside scoop on his season and recruiting process, Hamm and I got down to business in a fun one-on-one interview.
*Click link for Oct. 28, 2018, RNG interview with Jamel Hamm
Interview
Jamel, how did the 2018 season go for you overall?
“It went pretty well. We had a great year, we went undefeated. We are the only team in school history to do that. I did well. I started every game at corner. I played a little as an edge rusher and hybrid linebacker as well. It went well.”
How did you take your game to the next level?
“I worked out a lot, mornings and evenings. I was on a five- to six-day schedule with just one day off. My technique got a lot better, reading offenses got better, my eye contact and footwork both improved. I learned how to play a hybrid linebacker/nickelback/safety role in addition to getting better at corner. I learned other positions as well.”
Is there an area of your game that you feel may get overlooked?
“My size and my speed. I think because I am tall, people do not realize how fast I am. I run a 4.5-flat, 4.49. I am just as fast as the little guy, but it may not look as fast because of my long legs.”
What are college coaches telling you they like about your skillset?
“They like my size and my body as a bigger kid. They also like my speed and think my strength is phenomenal.”
Which schools are showing interest as we near National Signing Day?
“Virginia, Virginia Tech, UCLA, Rutgers, and Ohio State.”
Which schools have presented offers?
“UMass (Massachusetts), Kent State, Alabama State, and Miami-Ohio.”
Nice. Have you had a chance to take any official or unofficial visits since the 2018 season began to date?
“Yes, sir. I took an unofficial to Ohio State, Virginia Tech, Rutgers, and an official to Virginia.”
Nice. How did the UVA trip go?
“It went well. I loved the facilities, the staff, and the atmosphere was great. I sat down with the team and some of the coaches and had fun getting to interact with all of them. They did not give me an offer, but it went really well.”
As an Ohio native, how did the Ohio State visit go?
“It went well. I was there for the Indiana game. That was my day. It was a good game, a tight game. I got a chance to sit down with Coach (Urban) Myer (former head coach) and their recruiting coordinator, we talked for a few minutes. I hung out with recruits and enjoyed the game.”
Do you have any planned visits upcoming?
“I want to take three more visits before National Signing Day. My coach is trying to tie some visits together for me. We’ll see.”
When evaluating a school, what criteria are important to you as you get closer to making a decision on which school you will attend and the program you will play for at the next level?
“I am looking for a family orientated program, a close net group with the coaches and players. Academics is important to me as well. I want the university to hold my major. As all recruits want, I am looking for a good staff that can coach me to get better, I am open and willing to learn. I am looking for a home away from home. I am open to go anywhere.”
Which major are seeking to pursue at a four-year university?
“Sports education.”
Last question. You are a talented player with great size and speed, what do you feel is the reason some of the bigger schools are missing out on you?
“I feel a lot of schools are overlooking me because I sat out my senior year (ankle). I am ready to take on the responsibility of being a student-athlete in college. My dad raised me well, whoever gets me is getting a hard-working student-athlete.”
Jamel, I appreciate your time today and wish you luck on the recruiting trail.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Hamm family; Jamel Hamm at Virginia and with Coach Shuman